Livability Del Rio, TX 2013

del rio livability.com/del-rio

TEXAS

Retail Revs Up City’s shopping, dining opportunities increase

Scenic Splendor

Del Rio’s outdoor attractions have never looked better 2013 | sponsored by the del rio chamber of commerce

CONTENTS

2013 edition

volume 4

del rio

photo provided by National Park Service

TEXAS

8 Welcome to Del Rio

Things to Do 2 Retail 1 Retail Revs Up City’s shopping, dining

An introduction to the community

12

opportunities increase

6 Local Flavor 1 Bring your Appetite

Flavorful restaurants make Del Rio a top dining destination

8 Arts & Culture 1 Stare All You Like Art devotees have multiple

exhibit selections

0 Sports & Recreation 2 Scenic Splendor Del Rio’s outdoor attractions

have never looked better

On The Cover Del Rio’s Lake Amistad Photo by Frank Ordonez

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You can take it with you -rio livability.com/del

DEL RIO TEXAS

VS UP RETAIL RE , dining City ’s shopping increase opportunities

or Scenic Splend

er er looked bett ons have nev door attracti Del Rio’s out SORED 2013 | SPON

OF COMM ERCE RIO CHAM BER

BY THE DEL

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livability.com/ del-rio

CONTENTS 2013 edition

volume 4

del rio TEXAS

Editor | Mitch Kline Contributing Writers | Grace Clausing, John McBryde, Jessica Mozo, Braxton Shoop Content Coordinator | Jessica Walker Boehm Staff Writer | Kevin Litwin Proofreading Manager | Raven Petty Lead Designer | Matt West Senior Graphic Designers | Stacey Allis, Laura Gallagher, Kris Sexton, Jake Shores, Vikki Williams Graphic Designer | Kacey Passmore Creative Technology Analyst | Becca Ary Lead Photographer | Frank Ordonez Senior Photographer | Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers | Michael Conti, Wendy Jo O’Barr Color Imaging Technician | Alison Hunter Integrated Media Manager | Jordan Moore Sales Support Project Manager | Sara Quint Sales Support Coordinator | Christina Morgan Sales Graphic Designer | Rachel Lorance Ad Production Manager | Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants | Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan Web Project Manager | David Day Digital Project Manager | Jill Ridenour Digital Products Designer | Erica Lampley Web Development Lead | Yamel Hall Web Developer I | Nels Noseworthy Web Designer II | Richard Stevens Web Product Manager | John Hood Chairman | Greg Thurman President/Publisher | Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President | Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales | Todd Potter, Jarek Swekosky Senior V.P./Client Development | Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./Operations | Casey Hester V.P./Content Operations | Natasha Lorens Audience Development Director | Deanna Nelson Creative Services Director | Christina Carden Distribution Director | Gary Smith Photography Director | Jeffrey S. Otto Web Services Director | Allison Davis Controller | Chris Dudley Senior Accountant | Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator | Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator | Diana Guzman IT Director | Daniel Cantrell Executive Secretary | Kristy Giles Human Resources Manager | Peggy Blake

Livability Del Rio, Texas is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses.

For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at info@jnlcom.com.

For more information, contact: Del Rio Chamber of Commerce 1915 Veterans Blvd. • Del Rio, TX 78840 Phone: (830) 775-3551 • Fax: (830) 774-1813 www.drchamber.com Visit Livability Del Rio, Texas online at livability.com/del-rio. ©Copyright 2013 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Ste. 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

Member Member

26

Living

Business

6 Workforce Training 2 Beyond the Classroom

38 Business Overview

Promising Prospects

San Felipe Del Rio ISD trains students in top industries

0 Education 3 Smart Approach Students have strong

education selections

32

They’ve Got the Antidote

Health

High-quality medical professionals serve the Del Rio community

Del Rio is a hub of commercial activity in South Texas

40 Working Here A City Without Borders

Del Rio makes all the right movies in international trade

3 Chamber Report 4 The Task of Multitasking

44 Economic Profile

35 Community Profile

The Association of Magazine Media Custom Content Council

Member Del Rio Chamber of Commerce

All or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

Please recycle this magazine

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We’re proud to introduce Del Rio’s newest funeral facility.

As a four-generation family business, our legacy of funeral service dates back to 1929.

Our reputation is one of dignity and respect toward the people we serve. Trinity Mortuary is also proud to be an active and contributing member of the local community.

Our credo is “Tradition, Tribute, Trust,” and that’s a promise you can depend on.

Whether we’re helping plan a service in advance, offering a compassionate word or providing counseling after the death of a loved one, we want you and your family to feel confident about your choice of funeral home.

If you have any questions about our services, please call or email with your interests or concerns.

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Del Rio

Located in Ceniza Hills 206 Kings Way • Del Rio, TX 78840 830.775.2230 • info@trinitymortuary.com

www.trinitymortuary.com

ONLINE | livability.com/del-rio Index

Activities

MORE ON DEL RIO Go to the links below for more articles and photos about Del Rio’s business climate, recreation, food, schools, health care, culture and more.

TOP EMPLOYERS livability.com/del-rio/tx/ business DEMOGRAPHICS livability.com/del-rio/tx/ facts SCHOOLS livability.com/del-rio/tx/ schools HEALTH CARE livability.com/del-rio/tx/ health NEIGHBORHOODS livability.com/del-rio/tx/ living ATTRACTIONS livability.com/del-rio/tx/ attractions FOOD livability.com/del-rio/tx/ food

Explore ancient rock art dating back 4,000 years near Del Rio. livability.com/del-rio/tx/attractions/rock-art-del-rio-tx

Photos

Business

GALLERY See more great images from around Del Rio. livability.com/del-rio/tx/ photos-video

SUCCESS STORY Learn how a Del Rio man built an empire with chips. livability.com/del-rio/tx/food/ discover-julio’s-chips-del-rio-tx

LOVE DEL RIO? Share the digital version of this magazine, or grab a widget and post it on your site or blog. livability.com/del-rio/tx/ magazine

Livability.com/del-rio is part of Livability.com, a collection of America’s best places to live and visit facebook/livability @livability livability.com follow us

Del Rio, Texas A quick, comprehensive overview of what’s great about the community

Pe

Juno

s co R.

At A Glance

163

Pumpville

VAL VERDE 277

Rio Grande

377

Comstock

Amistad Res. 90

Del Rio

90 277

Location

Del rio Located in Texas’ central border region, Del Rio is an oasis with San Felipe Springs flowing 150 million gallons of water per day through creeks and canals.

Water and a mild climate make Del Rio a recreational mecca.

POPULATION

35,543

Time zone Central

Distances to three major cities nearby Acuña, Mexico: 6 miles San Antonio, Texas: 155 miles Austin, Texas: 230 miles

annual rainfall

19”

National Average: 30”

For More Information

Del Rio Chamber of Commerce 1915 Veterans Blvd.

Del Rio, TX 78840 Phone: (830) 775-3551 Fax: (830) 774-1813 www.drchamber.com

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Del Rio

Accolade Rock art dating back 4,000 years has been found in Del Rio

The city of Del Rio, Texas, has attracted national attention during the past two years. Major TV networks such as ESPN, Food Channel, Outdoor Channel and Fox Sports Network put a spotlight on Del Rio’s natural attractions, small town friendliness, awardwinning restaurants and excellent educational opportunities.

Located in Val Verde County, on the Texas-Mexico border, Del Rio is an oasis in a semi-desert environment. The city’s creeks and canals constantly flow with clear, cool water thanks to the San Felipe Springs, which provide 150 million gallons of water each day. This large source of water not only provides recreational opportunities but fuels the development of new neighborhoods, businesses and shopping districts. Lake Amistad, which is just eight miles north of Del Rio, hosts professional fishing tournaments but is primarily enjoyed as a place for water skiing, scuba diving, recreational boating, swimming and bird watching.

Del Rio’s economy is strongly bonded to the nearby Mexican city of Acuña, which continues to attract Fortune 500 companies by offering economical labor for manufacturing facilities. Many company executives live in Del Rio; they come here to take advantage of the city’s hospitality, including restaurants, nightclubs, and art galleries and museums.

Del Rio and Ciudad Acuña feature shopping areas that encompass everything from well-established family businesses to large national chains and stylish boutiques.

Laughlin Air Force Base, the nation’s busiest airfield training facility, is in Del Rio and provides the city with an economic boost.

Throughout the following pages you’ll find more about what makes Del Rio one of America’s best places to live, work and play.

Downtown Del Rio Preserves History

The First United Methodist Church in downtown Del Rio is home to one of the city’s oldest congregations. The church’s current building, pictured here, opened in 1931 to accommodate the church’s growing membership.

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Things To Do Del Rio’s must-do attractions, activities and dining

Enjoy the Outdoors

Take a hike or fish in the Amistad National Recreation Area. Located on the border of the United States and Mexico, visitors also enjoy water sports, prehistoric rock art, and a variety of plant and animal life.

photo provided by david m. loftus

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Art Gallery

Live Entertainment

Campsites

Swimming Pools

Paint a Picture

Take a Seat

GO camping

Dive In

Sponsored by the Del Rio Council for the Arts, the art school at Firehouse Art Gallery offers classes for children and adults in areas such as fine arts, music, ballet and photography, and free kid workshops. The gallery also showcases exhibits that rotate monthly.

Watch the Upstagers, an all-volunteer theater group, perform at Del Rio’s Paul Poag Theatre for the Performing Arts.

Past shows include The Wizard of Oz and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, with two musicals scheduled each year.

Pitch a tent or park at one of the area’s campsites.

Holiday Trav-L-Park, Lonesome Dove RV Ranch and Broke Mill RV Park are all located near Lake Amistad and offer paved roads, shower facilities, Internet access and other amenities.

Cool off in one of Del Rio’s public swimming pools: Moore Park Pool and Buena Vista Pool.

Both pools have grills and are available for rentals, but call ahead for hours and availability. Admission to the facilities ranges from 75 cents to $2.

Del Rio

Things To Do

Make a Discovery

At SHULMA, visitors can connect with the environment and history through archaeological research and educational programs. SHULMA’s research team documents rock art sites, while kids can enjoy hands-on learning projects.

Nightclubs

Annual Event

Birding Sites

Winery

Dance all Night

Saddle Up

sip slowly

Meet friends for food, drinks and music at one of the area’s nightclubs.

Doc Holliday’s, Club Arriba, White Horse Lounge and Chaparral Night Club are just a few local favorites where you can party into the night and hear live bands.

Cheer for the riders or the bulls at the George Paul Memorial Bull Riding event at the Val Verde County Fairgrounds.

The George Paul is the longest-running bull-riding event in the world and will feature as many as six world champions.

Grab the Binoculars

See birds up close at one of the nine recreation areas for bird watching.

Some sites include the Amistad National Recreation Area, Calderon Nature Trail, Duck Ponds, Laguna de Plata, San Felipe Creek and South Del Rio.

Tour the Val Verde Winery, the oldest bonded winery in Texas.

Each wine is made in small batches, and selections vary seasonally.

Complimentary tours and tastings are available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

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Things To Do

Shop ‘Til You Drop

Plaza Del Sol Mall in Del Rio includes more than 45 stores, as well as a movie theater and restaurants like Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar.

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Del Rio

Retail Revs Up Del Rio has a growing number of shopping and dining opportunities

N

ew residents often are surprised by Del Rio’s assortment of shopping opportunities and hometown service. The city’s retail scene includes the popular Plaza del Sol Mall, locally owned shops and boutiques, and highly successful franchises of national restaurant chains.

Plaza del Sol Mall Plaza del Sol Mall is owned and managed by Levcor Inc. and anchored by JCPenney, Bealls, Marshalls, Ross Dress for Less and Cinemark. Many of the stores have performed high in national markets – Zales jewelry store was No. 9 in the nation in terms of annual sales, and Marshalls experienced the largest grand opening of any Marshalls in the nation. Bath & Body Works, rue21, Hibbett Sports, Cinemark, Rack Room Shoes and Applebee’s all saw sales increases from 2011 to 2012.

“Applebee’s renovated their store in January 2012, and sales have been very positive,” says Blanca Larson, general manager of Plaza del Sol Mall. “Since Levcor purchased the mall in mid-2010, they have added more than 45,000 square feet of retail tenants, most notably Marshalls, Kirkland’s and The Children’s Place. Not only do we bring national

merchants that provide quality products at a great value, the mall employs more than 300 people.”

The mall also acts as a community center; more than 100 events take place there each year. They include health fairs, sports registrations, Boy and Girl Scout activities, and cook-offs and fundraisers.

“We’ve done some remodeling to our front facade, and we plan to do more facility improvements in the future,” Larson says. “We’re also working on a Chick-fil-A site, and construction on that will start in 2014.”

Downtown Del Rio Just down the street from the mall, you’ll find an assortment of colorful shops and restaurants that offer a wide selection of fashions and flavors. Downtown Del Rio also includes Buffalo Girls & The Brown Bag deli on Main Street. Buffalo Girls has

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“It’s so nice to hear them [customers] say, ‘We don’t have anything like this where we live.’

We try hard to have different merchandise than all the other stores in town. You’re amazed what you can find here in Del Rio if you get out and look for it.” shannon brown, owner of buffalo girls & the brown bag

Snapshot

e grab lunch at Th Del Rio residents s, up so s rve which se Brown Bag deli, es and desser ts. ch wi nd sa s, lad sa

been open since 1998 and sells clothes, jewelry and home decor.

The Brown Bag serves breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday and lunch only on Saturday.

“We’re known for our fish tacos we serve on Wednesdays and our famous tortilla soup we serve every day,” says Shannon Brown, owner of Buffalo Girls & The Brown Bag. “The Brown Bag has started staying open late on the second Friday night of every month with live music.”

Brown says many of her customers travel from out of town to visit Buffalo Girls.

“It’s so nice to hear them say, ‘We don’t have anything like this where we live,’” Brown says.

“We try hard to have different merchandise than all the other stores in town. You’re amazed what you can find here in Del Rio if you get out and look for it.”

Vevilu Art Gallery is the go-to place in Del Rio for custom framing, ceramics and pottery, while Oasis Outback in Uvalde provides sporting goods and hunting and fishing gear.

“I enjoy living in Del Rio because it’s a good location, a relatively small city, with minimal

traffic congestion and great community involvement,” says Eduardo Amezcua, who operates Buffalo Wings & Rings. “Del Rio is a great place to raise children because the city is so family oriented, there are very good teaching staffs in our schools, and we have multiple outdoor activities such as boating, hunting and fishing due to Lake Amistad and area hunting ranches.”

Buffalo Wings & Rings Eduardo Amezcua opened Buffalo Wings & Rings in 2009, and it became a local favorite for its sports atmosphere and wings, gyros, burgers, wraps and quesadillas. The Cincinnati-based Buffalo Wings & Rings corporation has 44 locations in 13 states.

“Del Rio is a good location to start a business because our citizens are very involved and supportive of this town and all its businesses,” Amezcua says. “The retail scene in Del Rio has been improving, bringing in new, popular brand retail stores and restaurants.”

by Jessica Mozo by staff photographer Frank Ordonez

In addition to great food, Buffalo Wings & Rings has 27 TVs, making it a perfect place to catch the big game.

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Del Rio

Find a Treasure to Take Home

The Buffalo Girls boutique in downtown Del Rio carries clothing, shoes, jewelry and home decor from top brands and designers such as Jan Barboglio, Ivy Jane and Yellow Box. The shop and its adjoining restaurant, The Brown Bag, also offer live music from local artists every second Friday night.

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Things To Do: Local Flavor

Bring Your Appetite

Flavorful restaurants make Del Rio a top dining destination Del Rio’s food scene is thriving and varied, with a mix of upscale restaurants and casual establishments. In addition to a healthy dose of Mexican dishes, the city serves up classic American cuisine, like burgers and barbecue, as well as plenty of seafood.

Mexican-American Cuisine

Enjoy a Meal With a View Thanks to its location at Amistad Lake Resort, ICON Bar and Grill offers diners gorgeous lake views along with tasty Mexican-American food and a full bar. The restaurant’s menu includes appetizers, sandwiches and burgers, as well as entrees such as Byron’s INSANE! Fish Tacos – one of the most popular selections – and Del Rio’s Famous Corona Chicken.

Diners can bring in their catch of the day to be grilled, fried or blackened.

Casual Eatery

Grab a Burger and Fries Salas Better Burger serves up fresh, made-to-order burgers with all the fixings. This small, casual restaurant also offers sandwiches, tacos, chicken tenderloins and a fish plate, as well as sides like French fries, tater tots and onion rings.

Head Downtown for a Quick Lunch

“We have been going to Manuel’s for three years and it’s by far the best restaurant in Del Rio. Steaks are perfect, seafood, Mexican, they are all great. I would suggest making a reservation for dinner.

They fill up fast.”

George t., yelp reviewer

In downtown Del Rio next to the Buffalo Girls boutique, The Brown Bag is one of the area’s top lunch spots. The deli offers daily lunch specials – including fish tacos, which are available on Wednesdays and get rave reviews – and also serves soups, salads, sandwiches and a variety of desserts.

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Del Rio

Don’t Miss Dinner, Drinks and Dancing at Doc Holliday’s

Known as one of Del Rio’s top spots for nightlife, Doc Holliday’s now offers a full menu along with its popular dance floor and bar. Diners can enjoy pizza, pasta, salads and Mexican dishes, with cocktails, wine and beer also available. Doc Holliday’s also serves up nightly specials, with $2 nachos on Mondays and discounted pizzas on Tuesdays, and hosts events such as dance competitions and karaoke parties.

Barbecue Restaurants

Mexican Food

Order some ‘cue and a few sides

Visit Chinto’s for Fresh, Authentic Fare

Hot Pit Bar-B-Q has been a local favorite for more than 40 years thanks to its homestyle brisket and sausage served as a sandwich or plated and paired with the restaurant’s famous sauce. Sides like beans, potato salad, coleslaw and jalapeños are also on the menu at this cafeteria-style eatery, as well as smoked baked potatoes and apple pie.

Additional Del Rio barbecue spots include R&R’s B-B-Q Shack, which serves brisket, chicken, sausage, ribs, and sliced or chopped beef sandwiches, and Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q, where all of the meat is cooked with a dry spice over slow-burning oak wood.

Fine Dining

For tacos, burritos, enchiladas, fajitas and other Mexican dishes, visit Chinto’s Mexican Restaurant. It’s also known for its half-pound Mexican burger that is piled high with cheese, lettuce, tomato and guacamole, as well as its breakfast super tacos made with homemade tortillas.

By Jessica Walker Boehm

Save Room for Manuel’s flaming dessert Manuel’s Steakhouse features an upscale atmosphere and a menu that features steaks, seafood, Mexican dishes and specialties such as frog legs, quail and cabrito. The restaurant also offers a signature treat, Manuel’s Flaming Dessert, which includes vanilla ice cream, pecans and brandy. In addition, Manuel’s has a full bar with flat-screen TVs, and it hosts local musical acts.

Are you hungry yet?

Check out more Del Rio restaurants at livability. com/del-rio/tx/food.

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Things To Do: arts & culture

Stare All You Like

Art devotees have multiple exhibit selections Many painters, sculptors, potters, jewelers and photographers have their works on exhibit at studios and galleries throughout Del Rio, making the city perfect for artists and admirers alike.

Support Del Rio’s Art ScenewAn estimated 5,000 people participate each month in the First Friday ArtWalk, which winds through several galleries within the downtown Del Rio district. The event is sponsored by The HeART of Del Rio (an association of galleries) and takes place from 7-9 p.m. each first Friday. Many of the participating galleries have live entertainment and food.

Community Arts Center

Explore The City’s artistic side Casa de la Cultura straddles the border of Del Rio and Acuña, with the two cities sharing a common Hispanic culture. The “House of Culture” on Cantu Street in Del Rio showcases numerous works of art, and more than 40,000 people participate annually in the Casa’s programs. The educational programs for children and adults include ballet folklórico, ceramics, computers, drawing, literacy, painting, piñata-making and rondalla.

Art Gallery

Admire Works created by Area artists Artist and Del Rio resident Pam Bunch showcases her own work, along with that of others, at her interesting little shop called Lee Bunch Studio Gallery. The gallery is on the second floor in one of Del Rio’s historic buildings – Del Rio Loan Company on West Greenwood Street – and the exhibits include Southwestern works, such as oil paintings, from a dozen local and regional artists.

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Del Rio

“The Whitehead Memorial Museum is a treasure. There is so much to take in, and any true Texan would love this place. The greatest piece in the exhibit is a painting in the chapel which depicts people from all over the world seeing Jesus for the first time.” mary jane p, yelp reviewer

Entertainment Meets Education

Serving as the headquarters for the Del Rio Council for the Arts since 1977, The Firehouse includes an art gallery that showcases 15 to 20 exhibitions annually.

The Firehouse also has an art school with affordable classes and workshops for both children and adults in areas such as fine arts, dance, music, language, culinary arts and fiber arts.

Before becoming an arts center, the two-story, brick building was home to Del Rio’s first fire station, as well as city hall, the police department and the jail.

Rock Art

Archaic Artistry The ancient expression of rock art dates back 4,000 years, and hundreds of rock art sites in the Del Rio area have attracted archeologists from around the world. The oldest rock art is called Pecos River style and is studied at Shumla School Inc., a nonprofit archeological research and education center in nearby Comstock. The Pecos River style art forms produced by native peoples contain images of humanlike forms and animals, with some panels in Del Rio measuring 100 feet long and 20 feet tall.

By Kevin Litwin

fast fact Del Rio is rich in archeological deposits, many of which contain murals that date back more than 4,000 years.

Discover the Proud History of Laughlin Air Force Base in the

LaughLin heritage Foundation MuseuM

309 S. Main St. • Del Rio, TX Museum Hours Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat. – 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m.

Call or email for group appointments.

(830) 719-9380 • laughlinhf@att.net Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum is partially funded by the City of Del Rio and Val Verde County Hotel Occupancy Tax funds.

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Things To Do: sports & recreation

Scenic Splendor

Del Rio’s outdoor attractions have never looked better Dull moments? They rarely occur in the outdoors of Del Rio and its surrounding settings, with many of the outdoor recreational activities drawing upon the city’s natural beauty.

Natural Area

Water Recreation

Spend time in the Great Outdoors

Jump In and Splash Around

Spanning 37,000 acres of primitive and isolated land, Devils River State Natural Area comprises three units including Del Norte, Big Satan and Baker’s Crossing on State Highway 163. The river is fed by numerous springs, and its waters traverse ridges, canyons and along grassy banks. A local tour service is Devils River Outfitters, which has canoe and kayak rentals, shuttle services, gear and guided fishing trips.

Visitors to the state natural area should bring their own food and be prepared for a rugged outdoor experience.

San Felipe Creek originates from spring-fed headwaters three miles northeast of downtown Del Rio, and the creek flows for nine miles through the city’s center. Horseshoe Park, one of Del Rio’s most popular summer spots, provides areas to swim, fish or relax along San Felipe Creek, and the shoreline banks are shallow enough for children to stand, as well as swim short laps.

City Parks

Enjoy fun in the sun

Tee it Up and Take a Swing

For golfers, San Felipe Country Club is a nine-hole public course that also has a swimming pool, tennis courts and an on-site restaurant, while Leaning Pines Golf Course is a nine-hole public venue at Laughlin Air Force Base that is managed by the U.S. Air Force Services Agency. San Felipe spans 3,000 yards, and Leaning Pines stretches 3,200 yards. Both play at a par 36.

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Del Rio

Del Rio has several parks and facilities that have been renovated in recent years; Carranza Park and Onslow Park both upgraded their pavilions, bathrooms and playground equipment. Downtown Del Rio’s 14th Street Park has new playground equipment and a full skate park, and Moore Park Public Pool added a new pool floor and various other improvements. Buena Vista Park & Pool received renovations to its pavilion and bathrooms, and that park is now connected to Del Rio Lions Park by a new Northside Walking Trail along Agarita Drive.

The two-mile paved trail is for walking, running and biking, and it has a playground set and drinking fountain.

By Kevin Litwin

Ready to get active?

Check out more fun things to do in Del Rio at livability.com/del-rio/tx/ activities.

Camp, Hike and Fish at Lake Amistad

Lake Amistad is one of the largest, clearest lakes in Texas and part of the Amistad Recreation Area that is managed by the National Parks Service. The word Amistad is Spanish for friendship, and the lake is known for its camping, hiking and fishing – everything from largemouth bass to Mexican tetra.

A top outfitter in the area is Lake Amistad Guide Service, which provides fishing and hunting packages, along with tours of the Del Rio scenic region.

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LIVING: see the city

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Del Rio

Historic Structure Serves County

Build in 1887, the Val Verde County Courthouse is located in downtown Del Rio and is included on the National Register of Historic Places. The courthouse has undergone various restorations, renovations and improvements, and today it houses the county clerk’s office, health department, purchasing department and other local government offices.

See more photos of the Del Rio community at livability.com/del-rio/tx/photos-video.

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living Schools, health care and neighborhoods in Del Rio

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Del Rio

Local Sports Keep Kids Moving

Del Rio includes the Del Rio American Little League and the Del Rio National Little League, both of which help keep the community’s boys and girls active. The leagues offer t-ball, as well softball and baseball in the coach pitch, minors and majors divisions. Games are held at local facilities such as Pop Word Baseball Park and the sports complex at Alcoa Park.

Find more photos of Del Rio’s outdoor destinations and recreational attractions at livability.com/del-rio/tx/photos-video.

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LIVING

Beyond the

Classroom

Students prepare to work in top industries

F

rom constructing robots capable of scaling a pyramid to preparing jets for takeoff, Del Rio High School students have the opportunity to soar towards careers in engineering and aircraft maintenance. The school offers three programs that go beyond traditional courses and offer hands-on experience that has landed many students job offers after graduation.

A robotics club, and courses in engineering and aviation technology, are sponsored by the San Felipe Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District. In addition to the teaching staff at the high school, numerous individuals from Laughlin U.S. Air Force Base help mentor the students.

Build a Robot The robotics program is an after-school club with an expectation that students put in at least 15 hours a week outside the classroom.

Students have 45 days to design, build and program a robot to perform specific tasks. Brad Billeaudeau, an engineering teacher at Del Rio High School, serves as the robotics program sponsor and team adviser.

“This year’s task was to build a robot that could shoot a Frisbee into various goals for points and/or climb a 10-foot pyramid,” Billeaudeau says.

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Del Rio

Knowledge is Power

Del Rio High School students use math and science skills to complete projects in the school’s engineering program.

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Top 10

Unusual Spring Break Destinations

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Del Rio made the list.

Unusual Spring Break Destinations

See more Top 10 lists at Livability.com.

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Introducing the Livability.com Top 10 Lists New lists every month | Not your average lists | Not your average website

Members of the Del Rio High School robotics team use their creations in the classroom and in competitions.

The team participates in local, regional and national competitions with a chance to receive scholarships from universities, colleges and other organizations.

“The program teaches us to think outside the box,” says Mauricio Figueroa, a senior in both the engineering and robotics programs. “The task for the program gives us a constraint and shows us how to problem-solve.”

The engineering program teaches students to work as a team and shows them how math and science courses are applied to real-life experiences.

“What I consider one of the most important experiences for the students is that they get to use their personal creativities to solve problems,” says Bill Davis, an engineering teacher who has earned degrees in both physics and math. “In our engineering classes, each student or team of students has the opportunity to solve problems using their own ideas and skill sets.”

Freshman Priscila Paez also participates in both programs.

“The courses have helped me both in and out of school. They have taught me to be patient, find solutions, work on my communication and work as a team,” she says.

Soaring Potential The aviation technology program allows students to get hands-on experience in servicing and maintaining aircraft. Students start the program as freshmen, and by the time they reach their senior years they are helping out at Laughlin Air Force Base.

The “Grow Your Own” program is a collaboration between the school district and the Air Force base to educate and train students in aircraft technology. Ruben Resendez is in charge of the aviation technology program and is an Air Force veteran.

“This program gives students the opportunity to learn how to be responsible in supporting and

maintaining our country’s defense by helping keep the training mission at its best,” Resendez says.

Another bonus is that Laughlin has hired more than 200 program graduates.

Del Rio High School continually strives to offer students opportunities to prepare and educate them for their future. These programs are just three of the ways it succeeds in its mission.

by Grace Clausing by staff photographer Frank Ordonez

LIVING

Beyond Cla the

STUDENTS

ssroom

PREPARE TO WOR

K IN TOP

INDUSTRIE

F

S

rom constru cting robots capable of scaling pyramid to preparing jets a High School for students have takeoff, Del Rio soar towards the opportu careers in enginee nity maintenance. ring and aircraft to that go beyondThe school offers three programs traditional hands-on experie courses and offer nce that has students job landed many offers after graduation.

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Del Rio

A robotics club, and courses technology in engineerin , are g and aviation Independent sponsored by the San Felipe Del Rio School District. high school, Consolidated In addition numerous individual to the teaching Base help mentor staff at the the students. s from Laughlin U.S. Air Force BUILD A ROBOT The robotics that students program is an after-schoo put l Students have in at least 15 hours a weekclub with an expectatio perform specific 45 days to design, build outside the classroom. n and program tasks. Brad Del Rio High School, serves Billeaudeau, an engineerin a robot to team adviser. as the robotics g teacher at program sponsor “This year’s and into various task was to build a robot goals for points that Billeaudeau and/or climb could shoot a Frisbee says. a 10-foot pyramid,” The team participate s in local, regional and national

Knowledge

is Power

Del Rio High School students science skills use math and to complete school’s engineerin projects in the g program.

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t y. c o m /

D e l- R i o

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digital magazine Read it online or on your tablet and quickly share articles with friends.

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LIVING: Education

Earn College Credits, Degrees Close to Home

Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College is a member of the Texas State University System, and students can earn bachelor’s degrees in nearly a dozen fields. There are also master’s degrees in education and business administration. The Del Rio campus has small classes, computer laboratories, an auditorium, several student clubs and a strong athletic tradition.

Smart Approach

Students have strong education selections Schools in Del Rio deserve a gold star for providing students with strong education options and rigorous programs all the way from prekindergarten through college.

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Public Schools

Higher Education

San Felipe Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District

opportunities in nearby Ciudad AcuÑa

San Felipe Del Rio CISD offers classroom curriculums to elementary, middle and high school students, with 13 schools in the district. There are nine elementary schools, two middle schools, Del Rio Freshman School and Del Rio High School, which has about 3,000 students.

Del Rio High School has a program entitled Project Lead the Way, which focuses on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education. The program helps students improve their problem-solving skills and prepares them to enter the workforce.

Across the border from Del Rio is Ciudad Acuña, which also has universities and technical schools. Students have convenient access to the Instituto Hispanoamericano de Villa Acuña, A.C.; Universidad Autónoma de Acuña Coahuila; and the Centro de Estudios de Ciencias y Humanidades, plus there are technical schools such as CBTis 54, CECyTec and Conalep cd Acuña.

Del Rio

SWTJC Del Rio offers both auto body repair and automotive technology programs.

Junior College

southwest texas junior college Del Rio houses a campus of Southwest Texas Junior College on Wildcat Drive in the northwest portion of the city. SWTJC Del Rio accommodates more than 1,200 students and offers degree and certificate programs in 24 academic and workforce fields. Curricula include air conditioning and refrigeration technology, auto body repair, cosmetology, heavy equipment operation, law enforcement, nurse’s aide, welding and wildlife management. Other academic fields are business, child development, computer information systems, criminal justice, engineering, homeland security and teaching.

By Kevin Litwin Find out more about education in Del Rio at livability.com/del-rio/tx/ schools.

GATEWAY APARTMENTS OAKWOOD APARTMENTS

DEL RIO, TEXAS • (830) 298-2860 When you want to enjoy life to the fullest, in a place that’s planned for comfort and ease – select Gateway or Oakwood Apartments – homes for living in a country-like atmosphere just minutes away from Laughlin AFB, Cd. Acuna, Mexico and beautiful Lake Amistad. With special features that make life more relaxing and entertaining, and more fun like swimming pools, well-equipped kitchen, on-site laundry facilities, on-site security and security gate.

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LIVING: Health

They’ve Got the Antidote

High-quality medical professionals serve the Del Rio community

Serving Del Rio and the communities that surround it, Val Verde Regional Medical Center is the area’s only full-service hospital.

Del Rio is also home to the Amistad Medical Professionals, a group of eight specialty physicians that is part of VVRMC. Val Verde Regional Medical Center Open since 1959, VVRMC has 93 beds and is staffed by a team of 400 health-care professionals. The facility, which includes a level IV trauma center in its emergency department, provides hospice care, an intensive care unit, a special procedures unit, an imaging center and surgical services. In addition, a 32

Del Rio

women’s center with five labor/ delivery/recovery rooms is on site, as well as a 16-crib nursery with a postpartum area nearby.

Renovations are under way at VVRMC, with each of the medical surgical unit’s patient rooms being transformed to private accommodations. The women’s center also will receive a “facelift,” according to Francine Piña, VVRMC’s vice president of community service and hospitality.

“The renovations are another component to raise the bar in what our community deserves from this hospital and will give us the ability to offer amenities comparable to larger health-care systems,” Piña says.

VVRMC’s additional services include physical, occupational and speech therapies; wound care; respiratory therapy; and sleep disorder treatment. The medical center also operates the Val Verde Health Clinic, which is nearby and treats minor injuries and illnesses.

“Though VVRMC continues to renovate, expand in services, and advance in technology, its mission and commitment to serve the community has remained unchanged,” Piña says.

Amistad Medical Professionals VVRMC also includes the Amistad Medical Professionals, a group of physicians that recently

These fine people don’t look like a group of battle hardened troops. But take a closer look. When it comes to fighting cancer, this bunch is made up of Del Rio’s most battle-tested foot soldiers. As a team of cancer treatment

Val Verde Regional Medical Center is upgrading its facilities.

grew by three members – Dr. Mark Manning, Dr. Jose Oviedo and Dr. Mostafa Salama – who previously worked with Shannon Health System at the Vista Verde Medical Plaza building. In early 2013, VVRMC purchased the facility, enabling patients to continue receiving care at the same location without interruption.

“VVRMC is proud to welcome these physicians to Amistad Medical Professionals and looks forward to adding other physicians to address the needs of our community,” Piña says. “Our goal is to create the best possible outcome and patient care experience for the people we serve.”

Currently, the eight-physician team specializes in psychiatry, orthopedic surgery, general surgery, cardiology, pediatrics, family medicine, and obstetrics and gynecology. Four mid-level providers, including nurse practitioners and physician’s assistants, are also part of Amistad Medical Professionals group.

by Jessica Walker Boehm

Read more about Del Rio’s hospitals and health-care centers at livability.com/ del-rio/tx/health.

professionals with decades of experience, Dr. Susan Taylor and her staff wage war every day … for every patient … every time.

Remember that, when you find yourself in the fight of your life.

This is what we do. We’ve got your back.

1301 Ave. G • Del Rio, TX 78840 • (830) 775-5800 tel • (830) 775-8811 fax

2410 Bedell Ave. Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 488-6280

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visit our

advertisers Amistad Industries LTD www.amistadmexico.com Amistad Manufactured Homes www.manufacturedhomesdelrio.com Arc-Rite Welding & Truck Accessories www.arcrite.com

Manufacturer of Heavy-Duty Grill Guards, Headache Racks, Steps, Running Boards & Bumpers Custom Welding & Fabrication Powder Coating Services • Truck Accessories Towing Products • Wheels & Tires Trailer Sales, Parts & Repairs Performance Products • Exhaust Products Line-X Spray-On Bedliners 5555 Hwy. 90 W. • Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 774-6058 • (800) 848-9763 (830) 775-7108 Fax • www.arcrite.com Owner: Clay Taylor

Buffalo Wings & Rings www.buffalowingsandrings.com Chinto’s Mexican Restaurant Del Rio Buzz www.delriobuzz.com Del Rio Chamber of Commerce www.drchamber.com Del Rio Ford Lincoln www.delriofordlm.com Edwards-Graham Insurance Agency www.edwardsgraham.com Gateway Apartments/ Oakwood Apartments Holiday Inn Express www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum Inc. https://sites.google.com/site/ laughlinheritagefoundationinc Lee Bunch Studio Gallery www.leebunchstudiogallery.com Pico Petroleum & Convenience Stores www.picoaviation.com

Rural Waste Collection Service Weekly garbage collection service to customers who live within 20 miles of Del Rio city limits You will receive a choice of a cart or dumpster: • One 96-gallon cart that will be collected once a week • One 4-cubic-yard dumpster that will be collected once a week

To begin service, fax order to 830-775-1913 or email delrio@redriverservice.com

Plaza Del Sol www.plazadelsolmall.com Ramada www.ramadainndelrio.com Rio Bravo Cancer & Blood P.A. RR Waste Solutions www.rrwastesolutions.com Southwest Texas Junior College www.swtjc.edu The Bank & Trust www.thebankandtrust.com The Little Schoolhouse www.delriolittleschoolhouse.com

830-775-1910

www.rrwastesolutions.com

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Del Rio

20 and 30 roll-off container service available – please call for quote.

Trinity Mortuary www.trinitymortuary.com Val Verde Regional Medical Center www.vvrmc.org

$35,673

ethnicity 25%

34%

White

Hispanic

Black

Other

Median Household Income

$40,390

7%

Median Home Price

41%

$596

46%

AGE

cost of living

Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

46%

19 and Under

1%

20-54 55 and Over (percentages based on the total = 34,729)

(percentages based on the total = 65,746)

Transportation Median Travel Time to Work

Temperature January Average Low

July Average High

14 minutes

96°

40°

76°

31°

Closest Airport Del Rio International Airport January Low National Low

July High

National High

2 miles

THE LITTLE SCHOOLHOUSE Established 1973

Pre-school through Sixth Grade

605 Amistad Blvd. • Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-2756 www.delriolittleschoolhouse.com

sunday 6 a.m.-2 p.m.

Monday-wednesday 6 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

400 6th St. • Del Rio • 830-774-1592 owners: Jacinto and Dolores Rivera and Jacinto Rivera, jr.

stay hungry amigos!

Community profile

thursday-saturday 6 a.m.-10 p.m. l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d e l- r i o

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business Info on Del Rio’s top employers, jobs and success stories

36

Del Rio

Top Employer Trains Future Leaders

Laughlin Air Force Base, one of the largest employers in Del Rio, is home to the 47th Flying Training Wing includes the T-6, T-38 and T-1A aircraft. The base conducts specialized undergraduate pilot training for the members of the United States Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard and allied nation air forces.

Check out more images of Del Rio’s major employers and great places to work at livability.com/del-rio/tx/photos-video.

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business: overview

Promising Prospects

Del Rio is a hub of commercial activity in South Texas Available sites, buildings, financial incentives and a technically skilled workforce attract manufacturing companies and industries to Del Rio. Proximity to Acuña, Mexico, gives the city a global advantage for manufacturing companies looking to minimize costs.

Manufacturing

U.S. Air Force

Maquiladoras’ Impact on Del Rio

Laughlin Air Force Base

One of Del Rio’s economic strengths is its close location to Ciudad Acuña, Mexico, which is six miles away. As businesses strive to remain competitive, many of them see Mexico as a prime location for manufacturing because of its proximity to the continental United States and its less-expensive market for labor. These businesses have established manufacturing plants throughout Mexico called maquiladoras, and they are especially located near the United States.

Many businesses have chosen to establish maquiladoras in Acuña because of its market of available labor, its relatively stable local economy and its proximity to Del Rio. These maquiladoras in Acuña benefit Del Rio because businesses with maquiladoras in Acuña often use Del Rio as a site from which to supervise their maquiladora’s production. As more businesses shift their manufacturing to Acuña to become increasingly competitive in the global economy, Del Rio is likely to see a corresponding increase in the number of businesses that establish supervisory sites in Del Rio.

As the home of the 47th Flying Training Wing, Laughlin Air Force Base trains some of the world’s best pilots. With 165 buildings and three runways covering 4,500 acres, Laughlin is Del Rio’s premier employer. In fact, Laughlin directly employs more than 2,600 people and provides employment to about 1,400 other individuals indirectly.

These employees draw an annual payroll of about $96 million, and Laughlin’s economic impact to Del Rio and other nearby municipalities is approximately $217 million.

By Braxton Shoop

Retail Destination Contributes to Healthy Business Climate

The Plaza Del Sol Mall has more than 45 stores including JCPenney, Bath & Body Works and rue21, to name a few. In addition, Plaza Del Sol features the Cinemark Movies 8 movie theater and dining establishments like Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar and International House of Pancakes.

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Del Rio

Business Spotlight Trinity Mortuary Founded by Del Rio’s first Hispanic mortician, Trinity Mortuary has been serving the community since the late 1920s.

This full-service funeral home also provides bereavement counseling and advance funeral planning. www.trinitymortuary.com

Lake Amistad Marina Located in the Amistad National Recreation Area, Lake Amistad Marina is a top spot for fishing.

The 68,000-acre lake is home to largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish and more. www.lakeamistadmarina.com

Broke Mill RV Park Broke Mill RV Park features paved roads, spacious RV sites, restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, a swimming pool and other amenities. The park also has concerts, workshops and more in its event center. www.brokemillrvpark.com

Gatti’s Pizza: Del Rio Gatti’s Pizza has a buffet with pizza, pasta, salad and dessert options, as well as a menu that includes speciality pizzas and sides such as chicken wings and cheese sticks. stores.gattispizza.com/ location/delrio

Val Verde Winery The state’s oldest winery to remain in continuous operation, Val Verde Winery has a variety of red and white wines, as well as port. The winery also offers complimentary tours and tastings. www.valverdewinery.com

Discover more about Del Rio’s business climate and workforce at livability. com/del-rio/tx/business.

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business The Lake Amistad Dam International Crossing connects the United States and Mexico.

A City Without

Borders Del Rio makes the right moves in international trade

I

t’s been called a well-kept secret, but the burgeoning partnership between Del Rio and Acuùa, Mexico, is getting increased attention as more companies and manufacturers learn of its advantages.

40

Del Rio

Alcoa’s Acuña facility has a low turnover rate of two percent.

And its advantages are plentiful, according to Al Arreola Jr., executive director of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce.

“Our history shows that we were ahead of the curve when it came down to creating a businessfriendly environment for manufacturing on the border,” Arreola says. “Looking to the future, especially as it relates to the exponential growth of manufacturing in Mexico, we have set ourselves up for continued success along our immediate corridor.”

‘Simple’ Border Crossings Some 56 companies from the U.S. have established manufacturing plants in Ciudad Acuña through the years, particularly since the passage of the North American Free Trade Agreement. Many are high-profile, including Alcoa, Oster, General Electric, Bridgestone/Firestone and San Antonio Shoe Company. Recent additions are Caterpillar, which is opening a plant in Acuña that will add 1,500 jobs; and Emerson, which produces polymer storage and technology products sold under the Metro brand.

Among the factors that make Del Rio’s connection to Acuña so attractive are short border crossing times, strong work ethic, a

minimum of union activity, cheaper labor costs, and the ability to use U.S. trucks and drivers to deliver to Mexican facilities.

“The nice thing about Acuña is that they are isolated from most of the main traffic going across the border, so border crossing activities are very simple,” says Ken Smith, who lives in Del Rio and oversees Mexican operations for Alcoa. “I can have a truck leave my dock from Acuña and have it at the dock in Del Rio in about two hours. That’s a major advantage to any other port of entry, where you’re talking five to eight hours to cross the border.

“The work ethic in Acuña is also solid,” he adds. “Turnover (at the Alcoa plant there) is about two percent, which is phenomenal compared to other Mexican operations and even good compared to Alcoa operations in the U.S.” Key Components In 1978, Amistad Industrial Developers became opertational in Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila. Less than 30 years later, the company has constructed over 15 million square feet of industrial space for a client family that includes more than 100 companies which have generated, directly and indirectly, a total of 255,000 jobs.

“Our history shows that we were ahead of the curve when it came down to creating a business-friendly environment for manufacturing on the border.” al arreola jr., executive director del rio chamber of commerce

Mexico’s manufacturing industry changed during that time.

Accordingly, Amistad changed and has grown to enjoy a presence throughout much of Mexico, and is poised for further expansion, nationally and internationally.

The chamber’s Arreola says another main component for Del Rio’s relevance in the global marketplace is the Ports-to-Plains Alliance, which involves officials from nine states along a 2,300-mile corridor from Del Rio to Alberta, Canada. The project includes State Loop 79 around Del Rio, and there are notable improvements on the Mexican infrastructure from the sea ports to and through Acuña.

by John McBryde by staff photographer l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d e l- r i o

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PICO AVIATION “We Sell Service” • Commercial • Residential

830-768-0898 • Jet A & Avgas Sales • Plane & Vehicle Storage

• Farm & Ranch • Deliveries & Installations

830-775-7581

• Catering • Full-Service FBO

Amistad Manufactured Homes LLC.

Lic.# RBI 35751 We buy, sell, or trade singles and double wides –new or used!

TRANSPORT • RELEVELS • TIE DOWNS • SKIRTING 5375 W. U.S. Hwy. 90 • Del Rio, TX 78840 • (830) 774-4300

www.manufacturedhomesdelrio.com

Can you imagine … a world without children?

We Can’t.

Call 1-800-996-4100 to help. www.stjude.org

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Del Rio

business: Chamber Report

The Task of Multitasking Chamber backs successful programs The Discovery Channel produced and aired a TV program in April 2013 entitled Official Best Border Town In Texas, with Del Rio in the starring role. That is one of many recent newsworthy accomplishments garnered by the city, with the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce involved in several of these blockbuster events.

“Besides welcoming the Discovery Channel, we organized a record-breaking Wild Game Dinner fundraiser with the most money ever made at that function, and had an increase in our membership in 2012 for the first time since 2006,” says Al Arreola Jr., Del Rio Chamber of Commerce executive director. “Our organization has also started a Young Chamber of Commerce, with those members called Younguns. They are currently involved in a gateway sign project called Rebuild Del Rio.” In addition, the chamber has formed an alliance with the Bexar County Economic Development Corp. and the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. Also, thanks in large part to the chamber, Del Rio captured the national 2013 Air Education and Training Command Community Support Award, also known as the Altus Trophy. It is presented to the U.S. community that has shown the most support and dedication to a nearby air command base or unit, which in Del Rio’s case is Laughlin Air Force Base.

“Laughlin is vital to our city in multiple ways, so the chamber has a Military Affairs Association that specifically works closely with officials at the base,” Arreola says.

“The chamber and Laughlin have always been good partners, dating back to the 1950s when the chamber lobbied to have Laughlin reopened following its closure at the end of World War II.”

Laughlin is the U.S. Air Force’s busiest airfield, and Arreola says the chamber teams with Laughlin officials to participate in dozens of volunteer and community projects.

Altus Award Del Rio recently received the coveted Altus Trophy in recognition of the support the community has

given to Laughlin and the Air Education & Training Command.

The Chamber’s Military Affairs Association led community support efforts. “What this award means is that our community and our base watch each other’s backs,” said Kurt Lemp, Military Affairs Association President.

by Kevin Litwin

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economic profile Taxes

8%

8.25%

25%

6.25%

High School Graduate

State Sales Tax

Associate Degree Bachelor’s Degree

8.25%

Master’s Degree

Total Sales Tax

Scorecard

Annual Retail Sales

$58M Annual Hotel and Food Sales

3,235

San Felipe Del Rio CISD Laughlin Air Force Base (civilian employees)

Transportation

$30,000-$99,999 1,115

$29,999 and Under

Del Rio International Airport www.cityofdelrio.com

5,374

5,358

If you care about it, we can insure it.

Home

Federal Agencies

$100,000+

Total Number of Firms

Auto

Top Employers

household income

$513M

Boat

1,900+

County Sales Tax

education level

Motorcycle

1,500+

8.25%

9%

Mobile Home

1,400+

City Sales and Use Tax 58%

Edwards-Graham Insurance Agency

Since 1906

Union Pacific Railroad Co. www.up.com

Lee-Bunch Studio Gallery

Monday-Friday: 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Commercial Original Fine art by lOcal and area texas artists

Life Health 1906 Veterans Blvd.

Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-2411 www.edwardsgraham.com

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Del Rio

Watercolors | Oils | Pastels & Acrylics Custom Matting & Framing | Hand-Turned Wood

(830) 774-3456

100 W. Greenwood | Del Rio, TX 78840 Located above Del Rio Loan Company www.leebunchstudiogallery.com

Ad Index

6 Amistad Industries LTD

43 Amistad Manufactured Homes

19 Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum Inc.

44 Lee Bunch Studio Gallery

34 Arc-Rite Welding & Truck Accessories

41 Pico Petroleum and Convenience Stores

43 Buffalo Wings & Rings

35 Chinto’s Mexican Restaurant

C3 Ramada

43 Del Rio Buzz

33 Rio Bravo Cancer & Blood P.A.

34 RR Waste Solutions

31 Southwest Texas Junior College

43 The Bank & Trust

35 The Little Schoolhouse

2 Del Rio Chamber of Commerce

C4 Del Rio Ford Lincoln

44 Edwards-Graham Insurance Agency

31 Gateway Apartments/ Oakwood Apartments

33 Holiday Inn Express

4 Plaza Del Sol

6 Trinity Mortuary

C2-1 Val Verde Regional

Medical Center

DEL RIO’S PREMIER FULL-SERVICE HOTEL Expect a warm welcome at the Ramada – Del Rio; our personal touch is what sets us apart. Our staff is committed to making your stay exceptional in all aspects: be it one of our service or support members, event planners or management team, we strive to get to know you in hopes that, when you leave, we have earned a new and respected friend.

Whether you’re looking to plan a corporate meeting, retreat, escape the stress of business, want just to relax, plan the perfect wedding, family or class reunion, we provide the perfect setting for a truly memorable visit.

• A new Mexican cuisine concept • Open at 6 a.m. daily • Daily breakfast buffet and lunch buffet • A la carte menu available at all meal times • Dinner specials from 5-10 p.m.

• Room service available during restaurant hours

RAMADA has been newly renovated and offers many features and services to make you enjoy your stay.

• A new stand-alone gym and sauna: Overlooking our new courtyard. We want to help you achieve your fitness goals, and this allows you to stay fit while away from home.

• New pool and Jacuzzi: Our pool area is totally renovated and includes a swim up bar that allows you to enjoy, relax, unwind and entertain after a long day of business travel.

• Guest Rooms: The Executive and Business Class guest rooms feature all the comforts of home with upgraded amenities and services that help you get the job done.

• All other areas of the hotel have been renovated as well to keep up with new trends, such as the White Horse Lounge, a favorite night club for many years.

Malinda restaurant has a new concept that includes not just an upgraded menu, but a totally trained staff by a culinary school to offer you the best of the best in Mexican cuisine.

• Parking lot is protected with parking barrier gates allowing privacy on parking and improving the safety of your vehicle.

• Open daily until 2 a.m.

• Happy Hour specials from 4-8 p.m.

• Free appetizers at 6 p.m.

Monday-Friday • HDTVs with surround sound • Full menu available nightly until 12 a.m. Friday and Saturday until 2 a.m.

2101 Veterans Blvd.

Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-1511 (830) 768-0481 fax

www.ramadainndelrio.com

Fernando Maldonado Sales Consultant

Victor Sobrevilla Finance Mgr.

Billy Willard Used Car Mgr.

Victor De Los Reyes New Car Mgr.

Rafael Sahagun Finance Director

Sergio Rodriguez Internet Sales Mgr.

Alfredo Ramirez Sales Consultant

Francisco Garcia Sales Consultant

Christie L. Kahlig-Davis Managing Partner

Doug Humphreys Sales Consultant

Wendy Reynolds Marketing Mgr.

Sergio Graham Sales Consultant

Gilbert Figuero Service Mgr.

ford motor company’s most prestigious and select award for sales and service customer satisfaction!

Vincente Torres Sales Consultant

Armando Garcia Sales Consultant

Mike Martinez Sales Consultant

Come See Why We Go Further For You! Team Champions delrioford.com

kahligauto.com

Mario Domingez Service Advisor

Alma Carmona Service Advisor

Efren Rodriguez Service Advisor